USB-C Cables

[mkeegan]

I didn't managed to find any solid material online, so I decided to document it. I'd been experiencing issues getting the JetKVM to power on from my Mac Mini m4 using good quality USB-C cables from reliable brands such as Anker and Apple.

After chatting with Luke from JetKVM, I discovered it was because the device requires 5v power delivery without e-marker restrictions (e-marker is a chip that is used by USB Type-C to negotiate power delivery between devices). Higher spec USB-C cables have e-markers that can prevent 5v negotiation to devices like the JetKVM. This is especially true if the cable was designed for high-wattage charging or use with Thunderbolt. This goes a long way to explaining why a cable from a well respected supplier may not work.

After some research I've found a cable from a global supplier that works perfectly - IKEA!

https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/sittbrunn-usb-c-to-usb-c-blue-30546650/

[victorhooi]

Just trying to understanding this.

Are you saying that the JetKVM won't work with USB-C PD (power delivery) chargers, with USB-C cables?

But if you give it an old-style "dumb" 5V USB output (e.g. an old style 5V USB phone chargers, with a USB 2.0 A to USB-C cable) - it will work?

[mkeegan]

JetKVM can work with USB-C PD cables and chargers, but might run into issues if the cable has e-marker restrictions.

Stndard 5v USB power supplies should work absolutely fine.